THIS is the shocking moment a cashpoint swindler is seen scamming an elderly woman out of her bank card.

He then speaks to the woman - to tell her the machine is not working - and uses a piece of paper to cover the screen in order to secretly cancel the transaction.

Shortly after he is seen to have pocketed her card.

Police are currently investigating more than 20 distraction thefts across the West Midlands after at least £9,000 was stolen from people in this way since October 2014.

The thieves are thought to be working in a group of three and officers believe they may be travelling from London to carry out their crimes.

CATERS

Shocking CCTV footage has emerged

After distracting their victim at the cashpoint, the thieves - who memorise the person's pin number by hovering over their shoulder - then go on to withdraw hundreds of pounds from various bank accounts.

Officers have since been circulating CCTV footage of the suspects to other forces in order to try and trace them, but they are yet to identify the culprits.

The man who approaches people at the ATM machines is described as Asian with a trimmed beard and always wearing a hat.

If you're at a cashpoint and someone approaches you, don't take their word for it that the machine isn't working

Detective Constable Christine Hammond

Detective Constable Christine Hammond said: "We're determined to find those responsible for these thefts but in the meantime, we're keen to spread the word and let people know what's happening so they can take steps to protect themselves.

"If you're at a cashpoint and someone approaches you, don't take their word for it that the machine isn't working.

"Simply ignore them and carry on as you are, making sure you keep your pin covered at all times.

"If you do spot any suspicious activity like this, then please call police straight away and - if you see them getting in and out of any vehicles - make a note of any registration numbers.

"Sadly, it's often older people - the most vulnerable in our society - who are the target of these crimes."

• Anyone with information is urged to call 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111